Jamie McCluskey

[ictchris]

Today's Scotsman:

JAMIE McCluskey, the diminutive teenage midfielder who became the youngest footballer to play in the SPL aged 16 years and 79 days when he made his debut for Hibernian against Kilmarnock, is on his way out of Easter Road.

Thought to be frustrated by the lack of first-team opportunities which have come his way this season compared to a number of his peers, McCluskey has grown impatient with his lot and told Hibs that he wants to leave the club.

Under contract until the end of the season, there was speculation the player hoped to leave sooner rather than later and had already been freed. However, he was still a Hibs player last night, according to the club, and seems likely to be encouraged to remain until his deal runs out in the summer.

A spokesman for Hibernian said yesterday: "Jamie's contract is up at the end of the season and he's indicated a desire to leave. The club has been in discussions with him."

The youngster from Bellshill who tips 5ft 7ins and weighs around nine stone has dropped down the pecking order this season compared to other emerging prospects such as Steven Fletcher, Lewis Stevenson, Ross Campbell, Sean Lynch, Kevin McCann and Andy McNeil.

Having made a name for himself when he broke into the first team two years ago as a promising newcomer, McCluskey obviously found it difficult to sit on the sidelines while other young players grabbed their chance under John Collins' management.

The midfielder may have found more favour under Tony Mowbray's command and scored his only goal for the club against Peterhead in August. Skilful on the ball and popular with supporters, McCluskey has yet to develop the physical power and mental strength which many regard as just as essential as good feet to thrive in the SPL.

Get him signed up, he is a cracking wee player a real prospect.  I remember him coming on against us during our first game at Easter Road, Brewsters first match, and he looked superb.  He is small but so is Steven naismith and he is a cracking SPL player.

[clacher_holiday2]

sounds like a whiney wee noel hunt to me

[clacher_holiday2]

... although i know in terms of abilty and potential hes nothing like a wee noel hunt

[caleyboy]

Seen this boy a number of times at U19 and Reserve level and he was by far the best player on show. Maybe take a while to fill out so maybe needs farmed out to lower divisions where he will no doubt gain the "physical" experience. He is CC's type of player tho.

[Alex MacLeod]

Its defenders we need to find. And fast.

[DJS]

Agree with Alex.

As things stand we might well be playing a 3-6-1 formation next season

[RossP]

I'd like to know if Ian Vigurs is capable of making the step up next season....

Perhaps get him onto the bench, and perhaps a wee game before the end of the season.

Either that or i'll have to wait and see him in action against Elgin City pre season friendly...

[RednBlackComeback]

9 stone !!!!!............is 'he' a girl ???? :024:

[RiG]

He has signed for St. Johnstone.

[caleyboy]

Potentially an excellent signing for the Saints.

[Kingsmills]

No great loss to us though, midfield is not a problem area.